Report by Philomenas Brennan
The final round of the Michael Lyng Motors Intermediate Hurling League took place in Urlingford on Saturday last 16th September. With six points in the pot from the previous four rounds GBC was seeking to finish the League with a win which would guarantee them a place in the Shield Final but more importantly a spot in a quarter final.
GBC’s opponents, St. Lachtain’s had yet to win a round but it was evident early on that they meant to rectify their situation as they meant business from the start. Despite playing with the assistance of a strong win, GBC were very tentative in the opening stages and struggled for scores from open play. It was somewhat fortunate that they went into the break only one point in arrears.
Half-time Score: GBC 0-11 St. Lachtain’s 1-9
St. Lachtain’s started the second half with a quick point. GBC then combined well to get a much needed goal which saw them take the lead. Expectations that GBC would push on to gain the advantage proved groundless as St. Lachtain’s regrouped and were well worth their four point win.
Final Score: GBC 1-16 St. Lachtain’s 1-20
Team: C.Hoyne, D.Egan (C), B.Murphy, T.Ronan, E.Egan, C.Flynn, J.Ryall, S.Butler, K.Egan, T.Dunphy, B.Ryan, C.Murphy, W.O’Connor, S.O’Dwyer, S.Ryan.
Subs: A.Brennan, J.Roberts, E.Brennan
Scores: C.Murphy 0-12 (11fs), A.Brennan 1-0, S.Ryan 0-2, B.Ryan, W.O’Connor 0-1 each.
With other results going in GBC’s favour, despite the loss, GBC will now face Lisdowney in the Shield Final in Nowlan Park on this Sunday, but more importantly have guaranteed their quarter final place in two weeks time.